Apple’s iPhone series has been a staple of the smartphone market for years, constantly pushing the boundaries of technology with each new iteration. As we enter 2024, the two models that catch our attention are the iPhone 12 and iPhone 13. Although these models are part of a generation that is already somewhat outdated by the rapid pace of technology, they still remain popular choices for consumers due to their balance of advanced features and pricing.
In this article, we will explore the differences and similarities between the iPhone 12 and iPhone 13, examining key aspects such as design, display, performance, camera capabilities, battery life, and more. By the end, you will have a good understanding of which model might be best for you in 2024.
design
iPhone 12
The iPhone 12 debuted in October 2020 and was the first device in Apple’s line-up to feature a new design language that echoes the aesthetics of the iPhone 4 and 5. The device features flat edges, an aluminum frame, and a glass back made of Ceramic Shield, which Apple claims is tougher than any other smartphone glass.
- DIMENSIONS: 146.7 x 71.5 x 7.4 mm
- weight: 164 grams
- Colour: black, white, red, green, blue, purple
iPhone 13
Released a year later, the iPhone 13 refined this design while retaining many of the same elements. The most notable differences were the smaller notch on the front display and the diagonal orientation of the dual camera system on the back.
- DIMENSIONS: 146.7 x 71.5 x 7.65 mm
- weight: 173 grams
- Colour: starlight, midnight, blue, pink, red, green
winner in design
While both models are aesthetically pleasing and have their own charm, the iPhone 13 gets a slight edge due to its refined notch and more vibrant color options. However, if you prefer a traditional look, the iPhone 12’s design remains strong.
Display
Both the iPhone 12 and 13 feature Super Retina XDR displays, featuring OLED panel technology that delivers vibrant colors and deep blacks.
- size: 6.1 inches for both models
- Resolution:2532 x 1170 pixels
- Glow: Both reach a peak brightness of 1200 nits for HDR content, but the iPhone 13 has a slightly improved standard brightness.
Colors and contrast remain great on both devices, but the iPhone 13 benefits from display tuning and overall performance improvements.
winner in show
Given the slight improvements offered by the iPhone 13, it will claim victory in this area as well.
Display
processor
An important factor to consider when evaluating these two models is performance, which is primarily determined by the processor of each device.
- iPhone 12:A14 Bionic Chip
- iPhone 13:A15 Bionic Chip
The A15 Bionic, which powers the iPhone 13, delivers advanced GPU and CPU performance, including a 6-core CPU and 4-core GPU, delivering significantly better performance when it comes to gaming, multitasking, and performance-heavy applications.
RAM and storage
- to hit: The iPhone 12 has 4GB of RAM, compared to the iPhone 13’s 4GB. However, firmware optimizations in iOS 15 mean the A15 can better manage chip resources.
- storage options: iPhone 12 starts at 64GB and maxes out at 256GB. The iPhone 13 offers more flexibility, starting at 128GB and going up to 512GB, making the latter a better option for users who need more storage.
winner in show
The iPhone 13 takes the lead here due to the advanced A15 Bionic chipset, which is more powerful and efficient than the A14, making it a better long-term investment.
camera capabilities
iPhone 12
- Dual-camera system: 12 MP wide, 12 MP ultra-wide
- night mode:supported on both lenses
- video recording:4K up to 60 fps
iPhone 13
- Dual-camera system: 12 MP wide (with larger sensor), 12 MP ultra-wide
- night mode: magnified on the main lens
- cinematic mode: Introduced with iPhone 13, allowing professional-level video recording with shallow depth of field.
- Photographic styles: New presets for different photography styles.
winner in camera
While the iPhone 12 has solid capabilities, the iPhone 13 enhances Night Mode, introduces Cinematic Mode, and offers better performance in low light. Therefore, the iPhone 13 wins this round decisively, giving it the edge for photography enthusiasts.
battery life
Battery life is important for most users, and Apple’s optimization in this area has always been optimistic.
- iPhone 12:Up to 17 hours talk time
- iPhone 13:Up to 19 hours talk time
The iPhone 13 has a slightly larger battery capacity and better performance, thanks to its more efficient processor.
Winner in Battery Life
The iPhone 13 is undoubtedly the winner in this category, proving to be the longevity champion.
Software and Updates
Both the iPhone 12 and iPhone 13 run iOS and are capable of supporting software updates for years to come. Although they launched with different versions of iOS, both devices are compatible with the latest iOS versions, ensuring that users will have access to all the latest features and security updates.
future updates
Typically, Apple supports its devices for 5 to 6 years, which means both the iPhone 12 and 13 will be viable for future upgrades. However, the iPhone 13, being newer, will get a longer lifespan with updates than the iPhone 12.
Winner in Software
While both devices are capable, if longevity is considered, the iPhone 13 is best left with a future update.
Price determination
Pricing always plays an important role in the comparison between two models. So far in 2024:
- iPhone 12: Generally less expensive due to its age, it costs around $399 (although prices may vary by retailer).
- iPhone 13: Typically priced around $599 depending on storage configuration.
Winner in Pricing
If budget constraints are the primary consideration, the iPhone 12 offers excellent value for money. However, the features added to the iPhone 13 may justify the higher price for more financially comfortable consumers.
final thoughts
When considering the choices between the iPhone 12 and iPhone 13 in 2024, both still stand out as solid smartphone options. The iPhone 12 caters more to budget-minded consumers who want a robust smartphone experience without the latest features. In contrast, the iPhone 13 offers substantial upgrades in performance, camera capabilities, and battery life, making it a better choice for those looking for the latest technology and features.
If you prioritize features like advanced photography, better processing power, and a longer lifespan of updates, the iPhone 13 is the clear winner. However, if you’re looking for a solid device for everyday use at a more attractive price, the iPhone 12 will remain relevant in 2024.
questions to ask
Q: Is the iPhone 12 still worth buying in 2024?
Answer: Yes, the iPhone 12 is still a capable device, especially for users on a budget. It performs well and supports the latest iOS updates.
Q: What are the main differences between iPhone 12 and iPhone 13?
A: The main differences include the processor (A14 vs. A15), better camera features like Cinematic Mode in the iPhone 13, and slightly better battery life.
Q: Can I take great photos with iPhone 12?
Answer: Absolutely! The iPhone 12 has a dual-camera system that produces high-quality images, especially in good lighting conditions.
Question: Will the iPhone 12 get a software update in the future?
Answer: Yes, Apple typically supports iPhones for several years after release, so the iPhone 12 will continue to receive updates for some time.
Question: Which iPhone model is better for gaming?
Answer: The iPhone 13 is better for gaming due to its more powerful A15 Bionic chip, which delivers better graphics and performance in high-demand games.
Question: Does the iPhone 13 have better battery performance than the iPhone 12?
Answer: Yes, the iPhone 13 has better battery performance, delivering up to 19 hours of talk time compared to the iPhone 12’s 17 hours.
Ultimately, the decision depends on your specific needs and budget. Survey the features that matter most to you and make an informed choice between these two remarkable iPhone models.
